NORTH EAST, MD — Ariel Balog, an advocate for Cecil County’s agricultural sector, is dedicated to preserving the environment for both current and future generations. Cecil County, known for its vast agricultural land, spans over 81,040 acres, accounting for one-third of the county’s total area of 223,000 acres. As the Agriculture Industry Coordinator for the Office of Economic Development, Ms. Balog plays a pivotal role in protecting this land through education, awareness, and support.
Ms. Balog’s journey in agriculture began with her education at Cecil College, where she earned a degree in General Studies. The diverse courses she took have been instrumental in her role, which encompasses more than just crop cultivation. Cecil County boasts significant livestock and dairy production, a thriving equestrian industry, and food processing, all integral to the county’s tourism, including boating and fishing.
“Agri-businesses, like other businesses, are about relationships. My goal as the Ag Industry Coordinator is to generate connections between our farmers and ag businesses, creating a greater network of partnerships throughout the region. Familiarity with our area and with the various community partners will be a huge asset in this endeavor, which is one way in which my time at Cecil College is an asset,” said Ms. Balog.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Ms. Balog noted the importance of her time at Cecil College. “Some students know what they want to do coming out of high school, but I didn’t, and that’s okay. Cecil College played a key role in helping me figure it out,” she said. Supported by a scholarship from the Cecil College Foundation, Ms. Balog discovered her passion for the environment while working at a local plant nursery. This experience led her to further her education at the University of Maryland Global Campus, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management.
“Cecil College prepared me for UMGC. My associate degree fulfilled many of the prerequisites, enabling me to focus on my environmental management courses,” said Ms. Balog. She encourages high school juniors and seniors to consider starting their education at Cecil College, citing its affordability and the broad experiences it offers.
One of Ms. Balog’s significant initiatives is the annual Rooted in Our Community event, designed to raise public awareness about the importance of agriculture and modern farming practices. Hosted by Cecil College, the event brings together members of Future Farmers of America, regional farmers, political influencers, the public, and educators.
Through her work, Ariel Balog continues to foster relationships and build networks that support the agricultural community in Cecil County, ensuring its sustainability and growth for future generations.
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